Actuator

An actuator is the mechanism by which an agent acts upon an environment. The agent can be either an artificial intelligence agent or any other autonomous being (human, other animal, etc).

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A mechanism that puts something into automatic action is called an actuator.

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Some examples of actuators of these various agents include:

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• Human - Arms, hands, fingers, legs
• Part picking robot - Grasping mechanism, moving parts. Examples include solenoids and voice coil actuators.
• Mail transfer agent - Update software

In engineering, actuators are a subdivision of transducers. They are devices which transform an input signal (mainly an electrical signal) into motion. Electrical motors, hydraulic pistons, relays, comb drive, piezoelectric actuators, thermal bimorphs, Digital Micromirror Devices and electroactive polymers are some examples of such actuators.

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Motors are mostly used when circular motions are needed, but can also be used for linear applications by transforming circular to linear motion with a bolt and screw transducer. On the other hand, some actuators are intrinsically linear, such as piezoelectric actuators.

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See also switch, telepresence, touch, muscle.

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Agent: An agent is an autonomous entity with an ontological commitment and agenda of its own. The term originated in philosophy. Each agent possesses the ability to act autonomously; this is an important distinction because a simple act of obedience to a command does not qualify an entity as an agent. Neve...

Artificial intelligence agent: See intelligent agent...

Engineering: Engineering is the application of pure science to practical problems. More specifically, engineering is a professional activity that uses imagination, judgement, and intelligence in the application of science, technology, mathematics, and practical experience to design, produce, and operate useful ...